Parts for your 2017 Toyota Mark x-Struts

2017 Toyota Mark X: Are struts used on this model?

Based on factory documentation and parts catalogues for the X130-series Mark X (GRX130/133), the 2017 Toyota Mark X does not use MacPherson struts. Technical sources including the Toyota Repair Manual for GRX130/133, the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), and JDM model brochures list a front double-wishbone suspension and a rear multi-link arrangement. In these layouts the shock absorber and spring don’t serve as a structural member to locate the wheel, so they’re not “struts” in the MacPherson sense.

Why no struts? The Mark X is a rear-wheel-drive V6 sedan built for balanced handling and a low bonnet line. A double-wishbone front end allows better camber control through the stroke, sharper steering feel, and improved tyre contact in corners compared with a typical front MacPherson setup. At the rear, a multi-link arrangement lets Toyota tune ride comfort and lateral grip independently. TRD performance literature for the GRX130 also references coil springs, dampers, arms and bushes—not front struts—reinforcing that point.

What should owners service instead of “struts”? The Mark X still has shock absorbers, coil springs, and top mounts, plus a stack of wear items across both ends. A sensible service approach includes:

• Inspect front upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints for play or split boots.
• Check shocks for oil weep, fade, or knocking, assess ride quality over corrugations and speed humps.
• Assess rear multi-link arm bushes, toe/camber links, and stabiliser (sway bar) links and bushes.
• Rotate tyres and perform a four-wheel alignment after any suspension work, watch for feathering or inside-edge wear.
• Re-torque fasteners at ride height to avoid preloading bushes, replace self-locking nuts as required.

As a rule of thumb, have the suspension inspected every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or annually. Many shocks are tired by 80,000–120,000 kilometres depending on roads and load. In NZ, a WoF will flag obvious faults, but proactive checks help prevent uneven tyre wear and vague steering. In Australia, consider a pre-trip or pre–rego inspection if you’re noticing body float, clunks, or longer braking distances. Quality OEM-equivalent dampers and fresh bushes can make the Mark X feel tight and confident without making the ride harsh.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Mark X “struts”

Does the 2017 Toyota Mark X have suspension struts?

No. The 2017 Mark X runs a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension, so it uses shocks and springs rather than MacPherson struts. The damper isn’t a structural member for wheel location, which is what defines a strut.

If someone’s calling them “struts”, they’re usually speaking loosely about the front shocks. Parts lookup and workshop manuals list them as shock absorbers with separate control arms.

When should the shocks be replaced on a 2017 Mark X?

Have them inspected every 20,000–30,000 km and consider replacement around 80,000–120,000 km depending on road conditions and driving style. Signs it’s time include oil seepage, floaty body control, knocking over bumps, and uneven tyre wear.

Always pair replacements per axle, book in a four-wheel alignment afterwards, and check related wear items like top mounts, bushes, and stabiliser links.

Can coilovers be fitted to a 2017 Mark X instead of “struts”?

Yes—coilovers designed for the GRX130/133 chassis are available and replace the shock/spring assemblies, not MacPherson struts. Choose kits engineered for double-wishbone front and multi-link rear geometry.

Mind the legalities: in NZ, significant ride height or cert-required mods may need LVV certification, in Australia, state rules vary, so check compliance before fitting and get a professional alignment after installation.